For the better part of the last decade, there has been a rather significant tension within the heart of the GOP.
The far-right, bolstered by populist godsend Donald Trump has morphed in the MAGA Movement, capturing the hearts, minds, and wallets of an enormous cross-section of American society.
But, despite this, the old guard GOP continues to grip the wheel, steering the party ever-so-slightly closer to the double yellow line that runs down the center of our national political highway.
The right wing of the party sees it, and they’re not thrilled, and now that the GOP rode MAGA enthusiasm back into power in the House, some of conservatism’s staunchest defenders are asking for what’s due.
The Freedom Caucus is pushing for the Republican leader to hand more power to his caucus, demanding stronger roles for House committee chairs in exchange for backing Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy for speaker.
Trending:
The conservative House Freedom Caucus, which boasts more than 40 members, is proposing a wide array of changes to House rules ahead of a floor vote in January on McCarthy’s speakership bid. The conservative lawmakers want to gut the speaker’s ability to appoint committee chairmen, instead allowing a panel’s individual members to vote on the position.
“Each member of Congress has earned and deserves equal participation in the legislative process,” said Rep. Matt Rosendale, a Montana Republican.
And also:
Leadership allies say the process is open and fair and ensures no single person has total control. Critics say that McCarthy and other top Republicans dominate the panel, rewarding supporters and punishing members likely to buck leadership.
As proof, members of the Freedom Caucus cite that several of their members have been left off of committees that would appear to be a natural fit.
“Committees should have people on them that have experience in that field,” said Rep. Diana Harshbarger, R-Tenn. “That’s just common sense to me.”
Given the tenacity and sheer volume of the MAGA Movement, McCarthy & Friends would do well to offer at least some concession here, lest they wish to be reminded of their naiveté come ’24.
